Blockchain systems and methods for managing property loan information

ABSTRACT

Information associated with loans on personal property assets, such as vehicles or buildings, may be managed. An access computing device may be configured to access a blockchain network including a plurality of node computing devices that store a respective copy of a plurality of blockchains, each blockchain including a sequence of one or more blocks. The access computing device may manage communication of data between the blockchain network and a loan applicant or loan provider. The access computing device may transmit instructions to a node computing device to generate new blocks in the blockchain associated with new and/or updated loans on a personal property asset.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/460,216, filed Feb. 17, 2017, entitled“BLOCKCHAIN SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING PROPERTY LOAN INFORMATION,”the entire contents and disclosure of which are hereby incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to managing property loan informationand, more particularly, to network-based systems and methods forgenerating and managing property loan information using blockchaintechnologies.

BACKGROUND

When obtaining and/or refinancing a loan for a personal property asset(e.g., a vehicle, a property or building, etc.), a user or customer maybe required to provide information about any existing liens on thepersonal property asset. In order to decide whether to offer a new loanon the personal property asset, the loan-providing entity may usecustomer-provided data (e.g., customer data, data about the personalproperty asset) to determine and/or confirm information about theexisting loan. In at least some known systems, the process to retrieveinformation about the existing loan is a manual process, performed by ahuman analyst tasked with reaching out to the provider of the existingloan (e.g., over the phone). Generally, loan providers have teams ofanalysts to perform this process, which is prone to error, inefficient,time-consuming, and (in terms of required personnel) expensive. In atleast some cases, a customer may have to wait days to weeks for aresponse indicating whether they will be offered a new loan.

In addition, even if a new loan is offered and the customer accepts theterms of the new loan, a transfer of funds between the loan-providingentities (e.g., a payoff of the existing loan) and a subsequent transferof title and/or lien is executed and performed manually, which furtherextends the time it takes to complete the provision of the new loan.Accordingly, the current systems and methods for managing property loaninformation may be undesirable for customers as well as loan-providingentities.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present embodiments may relate to blockchain-based systems andmethods for managing property loan information, such as for vehicleloans, home loans, and/or any other loan or lien associated with apersonal property asset. A Loan Management (LM) computer system mayinclude an access computer device and at least one blockchain nodecomputing device of a blockchain network. The access computer device maybe associated with a loan provider and/or a loan applicant (“user”). Theblockchain network may function as a storage platform for loaninformation association with a plurality of personal property assets,such as vehicles and buildings. The access computing device may beconfigured to communicate with the at least one blockchain nodecomputing device to retrieve information from a blockchain associatedwith a particular personal property asset and/or to update informationstored on the blockchain, such as by adding a new block thereto.

In one aspect, a computer-implemented method of operating a computersystem to manage loan information using blockchains may be provided. Themethod may be implemented using an access computing device of thecomputer system. The method may include accessing a blockchain networkthrough a first blockchain node computing device, the blockchain networkincluding a plurality of node computing devices that store a respectivecopy of a plurality of blockchains, each blockchain including a sequenceof one or more blocks that are cryptographically verifiable and enforcea chronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks, wherein eachblock after a first block includes a description of data stored in aprevious block. The method may also include receiving a request forinformation from a first blockchain of the plurality of blockchains, therequest including an asset identifier associated with a personalproperty asset. The method may further include transmitting a queryincluding the asset identifier to the first blockchain node computingdevice, the asset identifier identifying the first blockchain andcausing the blockchain node computing device to identify a last block inthe first blockchain, the last block including an encryption of existingloan information for an existing loan associated with the personalproperty asset. The method may additionally include receiving theencryption of the existing loan information from the first blockchainnode computing device, and accessing a public key to decrypt theencryption of the existing loan information. The method may furtherinclude transmitting new loan information for a new loan associated withthe personal property asset based at least in part upon the decryptedexisting loan information, the new loan information superseding theexisting loan information. In addition, the method may include receivingan acceptance notification indicating acceptance of the new loaninformation, and, in response to said receiving the acceptancenotification, automatically transmitting an update instruction to thefirst blockchain node computing device, the update instruction includingthe new loan information, the update instruction causing the firstblockchain node computing device to generate and store a new blocksubsequent to the last block, the new block including an encryption ofthe new loan information and a description of data stored in the lastblock. The method may include additional, fewer, or alternative steps,including those described elsewhere herein.

In another aspect, an access computing device for managing loaninformation using blockchains may be provided. The access computingdevice may include at least one processor in communication with at leastone memory device. The access computing device may be configured toaccess a blockchain network through a first blockchain node computingdevice, the blockchain network including a plurality of node computingdevices that store a respective copy of a plurality of blockchains, eachblockchain including a sequence of one or more blocks that arecryptographically verifiable and enforce a chronological order of datastored in subsequent blocks, wherein each block after a first blockincludes a description of data stored in a previous block. The accesscomputing device may also be configured to receive a request forinformation from a first blockchain of the plurality of blockchains, therequest including an asset identifier associated with a personalproperty asset. The access computing device may be further configured totransmit a query including the asset identifier to the first blockchainnode computing device, the asset identifier identifying the firstblockchain and causing the blockchain node computing device to identifya last block in the first blockchain, the last block including anencryption of existing loan information for an existing loan associatedwith the personal property asset. The access computing device mayadditionally be configured to receive the encryption of the existingloan information from the first blockchain node computing device, andaccess a public key to decrypt the encryption of the existing loaninformation. The access computing device may also be configured totransmit new loan information for a new loan associated with thepersonal property asset based at least in part upon the decryptedexisting loan information, the new loan information superseding theexisting loan information. In addition, the access computing device maybe configured to receive an acceptance notification indicatingacceptance of the new loan information, and, in response to receivingthe acceptance notification, automatically transmit an updateinstruction to the first blockchain node computing device, the updateinstruction including the new loan information, the update instructioncausing the first blockchain node computing device to generate and storea new block subsequent to the last block, the new block including anencryption of the new loan information and a description of data storedin the last block. The access computing device may have additional,less, or alternate functionality, including that discussed elsewhereherein.

In yet another aspect, at least one non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium having computer-executable instructions embodied thereonmay be provided. When executed by at least one processor of an accesscomputing device, the computer-executable instructions may cause the atleast one processor to access a blockchain network through a firstblockchain node computing device, the blockchain network including aplurality of node computing devices that store a respective copy of aplurality of blockchains, each blockchain including a sequence of one ormore blocks that are cryptographically verifiable and enforce achronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks, wherein eachblock after a first block includes a description of data stored in aprevious block. The computer-executable instructions may also cause theat least one processor to receive a request for information from a firstblockchain of the plurality of blockchains, the request including anasset identifier associated with a personal property asset. Thecomputer-executable instructions may further cause the at least oneprocessor to transmit a query including the asset identifier to thefirst blockchain node computing device, the asset identifier identifyingthe first blockchain and causing the blockchain node computing device toidentify a last block in the first blockchain, the last block includingan encryption of existing loan information for an existing loanassociated with the personal property asset. Additionally, thecomputer-executable instructions may cause the at least one processor toreceive the encryption of the existing loan information from the firstblockchain node computing device, and access a public key to decrypt theencryption of the existing loan information. The computer-executableinstructions may also cause the at least one processor to transmit newloan information for a new loan associated with the personal propertyasset based at least in part upon the decrypted existing loaninformation, the new loan information superseding the existing loaninformation. In addition, the computer-executable instructions may alsocause the at least one processor to receive an acceptance notificationindicating acceptance of the new loan information, and, in response toreceiving the acceptance notification, automatically transmit an updateinstruction to the first blockchain node computing device, the updateinstruction including the new loan information, the update instructioncausing the first blockchain node computing device to generate and storea new block subsequent to the last block, the new block including anencryption of the new loan information and a description of data storedin the last block. The computer-executable instructions may cause the atleast one processor to perform additional, fewer, and/or alternativefunctions.

In a further aspect, a loan management (LM) computer system for managingproperty loan information using blockchains may be provided. The LMcomputer system may include a first blockchain node computing deviceintegral to a blockchain network. The blockchain network may include aplurality of blockchain node computing devices including the firstblockchain node computing device. The first blockchain node computingdevice may be configured to store a local copy of a plurality ofblockchains, each blockchain including a sequence of one or more blocks,wherein each block is cryptographically verifiable and enforces achronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks, and whereineach block after a first block includes a description of data stored ina previous block. The LM computer system may also include an accesscomputing device communicatively coupled to the first blockchain nodecomputing device such that the access computing device has access to theplurality of blockchains stored in the blockchain network. The LMcomputer system may be configured to receive, at the access computingdevice, a request to access the blockchain network, the requestincluding an asset identifier associated with a personal property asset,and transmit, from the access computing device to the first blockchainnode computing device, an instruction associated with the request, theinstruction including the asset identifier. The LM computer system mayalso be configured to, in response to receiving the query, at the firstblockchain node computing device, when the asset identifier isassociated with a first existing blockchain stored at the firstblockchain node computing device, retrieve encrypted existing loaninformation from a last block of the first existing blockchain andtransmit the encrypted existing loan information to the access computingdevice. Additionally, the LM computer system bay be configured to, inresponse to receiving the query, at the first blockchain node computingdevice, when the asset identifier is not associated with any existingblockchain stored at the first blockchain node computing device,generate a first block of a new blockchain associated with the assetidentifier.

Advantages will become more apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following description of the preferred embodiments which have beenshown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, thepresent embodiments may be capable of other and different embodiments,and their details are capable of modification in various respects.Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded asillustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The Figures described below depict various aspects of the systems andmethods disclosed therein. It should be understood that each Figuredepicts an embodiment of a particular aspect of the disclosed systemsand methods, and that each of the Figures is intended to accord with apossible embodiment thereof. Further, wherever possible, the followingdescription refers to the reference numerals included in the followingFigures, in which features depicted in multiple Figures are designatedwith consistent reference numerals.

There are shown in the drawings arrangements which are presentlydiscussed, it being understood, however, that the present embodimentsare not limited to the precise arrangements and are instrumentalitiesshown, wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary computing environment for implementing aloan management (LM) computer system for managing property loaninformation.

FIG. 2 illustrates a data flow diagram for one aspect of managingproperty loan information using the LM computer system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a data flow diagram for another aspect of managingproperty loan information using the LM computer system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary blockchain associated with a personalproperty asset that may be generated and stored using a plurality ofblockchain nodes.

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary blockchain miningsystem in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary computer-implementedprocess for one aspect of managing property loan information using theLM computer system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a user computing devicethat may be used in the LM computer system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a server computingdevice that may be used in the LM computer system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates a diagram of components of one or more exemplarycomputing devices that may be used in the LM computer system shown inFIG. 1.

The Figures depict preferred embodiments for purposes of illustrationonly. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the followingdiscussion that alternative embodiments of the systems and methodsillustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principlesof the disclosure provided herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present embodiments may relate to, inter alia, systems and methodsfor managing personal property asset loan information using blockchains.In one exemplary embodiment, the process may be performed by a computerdevice associated with a loan provider and/or with a loan applicant,also known as an access computer device, in communication with ablockchain network. In the exemplary embodiments, a Loam Management (LM)computer system, including the access computer device and/or one or moreblockchain node computing devices of the blockchain network, may beconfigured to facilitate automating a loan management process. “Loanmanagement” may refer to loan application processes, such as receivingand processing loan applications from applicants, to loan registrationprocesses, such as the execution of new loans, and/or to loan updateprocesses, such as updating terms of an existing loan, for instance,during an in-house loan refinance. “Loan provider” may refer to anyentity that may provide loans associated with personal property asset(s)to loan applicants.

The LM computer system described herein may include one or moreblockchain node computing devices of a blockchain network, wherein theblockchain network provides an encrypted, distributed, and immutableledger in which loan information associated with a plurality of personalproperty assets are stored. Each blockchain node computing device storesa local, complete copy of the ledger as a plurality of blockchains. Ablockchain is a distributed database that maintains acontinuously-growing list of ordered records, known as blocks. Eachblockchain may include a sequence of one or more blocks, wherein eachblock is cryptographically verifiable and enforces a chronological orderof data stored in subsequent blocks. In one exemplary embodiment, theone or more blocks may include a first block representing a firsttransaction—or registration of loan information—associated with apersonal property asset. The one or more blocks may additionally includesubsequent blocks, each subsequent block after the first block includinga description of data stored in the immediately previous block and/or alink to the previous block. In one exemplary embodiment, each subsequentblock in a blockchain may include loan information associated withsubsequent loans on the personal property asset and/or updates toexisting loans.

In some exemplary embodiments, the description of data stored in theprevious block and/or the link to the previous block may include a hashof data stored in the previous block. The hash (which may be referred toas a “hash value”) may be generated by executing a hashing function onthe data stored in the previous block. This continues on, with eachblock adding on to the next while containing a hash of the previousblock(s) in the blockchain. In this way, the chronological series ofdata stored in a single blockchain may be verifiable and immutable. TheLM computer system may include and/or access at least one blockchainnode computing device, thereby facilitating access to the distributedblockchain network through the at least one blockchain node computingdevice.

To ensure the security of the information contained in the blockchain,copies of the blockchain may be distributed across multiple computerdevices, known as nodes or blockchain node computing devices. Thesenodes maintain the blockchain, update the blockchain when changes occur,and ensure the stability of the blockchain itself. In some embodiments,nodes may be also used to calculate the hash of the previous blocks. Asthe blockchain grows, the processing power needed to calculate the hashof the previous blocks grows as well. In these embodiments, theprocessing of the hash may be distributed over multiple computer devicesto improve the speed of processing and/or to not overburden the hashingprocessor. When a node processes (hashes) a block, that node is known asa miner, where the action of validating and hashing the block is alsoknown as mining.

In some embodiments, data stored in a block of a blockchain may beencrypted using any suitable encryption process(es), thereby improvingthe security of the data stored therein. In some embodiments, a blockmay include and/or otherwise provide access to a public key that enablesdecryption of encrypted data stored in the block. In other embodiments,a public key may be securely distributed to access computer device(s)that are verified to have entitlement access to the data within a blockand/or within the blockchain network.

In one exemplary embodiment, the blockchain network may function as aplatform for storage of loan information associated with personalproperty assets. “Personal property assets” may include, for example,but not limited to, personal vehicles, cars, trucks, boats, ATVs,motorcycles, commercial vehicles, buildings, homes, residences, objects,and/or land. The blockchain network may further function to store smartcontracts that execute upon satisfaction of one or more executioncriteria. The execution criteria may be set forth during the loanapplication phase, and are satisfied, in some embodiments, uponacceptance of the smart contract by a loan applicant. Execution of thesmart contract may automatically trigger a transfer of funds (e.g., froma new loan provider to an existing loan provider) and/or a transfer of atitle or other ownership document associated with the personal propertyasset.

In the exemplary embodiment, the access computing device describedherein may be configured to access the blockchain network through afirst blockchain node computing device. The access computing device maybe further configured to receive (e.g., directly and/or from a usercomputing device) a request for information from a first blockchain ofthe plurality of blockchains, the request including an asset identifierassociated with a personal property asset. The request for informationmay include a new loan application.

The access computing device may also be configured to transmit a queryincluding the asset identifier to the first blockchain node computingdevice, the asset identifier identifying the first blockchain. The querymay cause the blockchain node computing device to identify a last blockin the first blockchain, wherein the last block includes an encryptionof existing loan information associated with the personal propertyasset. The access computing device may receive the encryption of theexisting loan information from the first blockchain node computingdevice. In some embodiments, the access computing device may access apublic key to decrypt the encryption of the existing loan information.The access computing device may transmit (e.g., to the user computingdevice, or to a display of the access computing device) new loaninformation associated with the personal property asset based at leastin part upon the decrypted existing loan information. The new loaninformation may be associated with a new loan offered to a user (e.g., aloan applicant) and may replace or supersede the existing loaninformation.

Upon receiving (e.g., from the user computing device or from an inputdevice of the access computing device) an acceptance notificationindicating acceptance of the new loan information, the access computingdevice may automatically transmit an update instruction to the firstblockchain node computing device. The update instruction may include anencryption of the new loan information and/or may cause the firstblockchain node computing device to encrypt the new loan information.The update instruction may cause the first blockchain node computingdevice to generate and store a new block subsequent to the last block,the new block including the encryption of the new loan information and adescription of data stored in the last block (e.g., a hash of the lastblock).

In some embodiments, when a loan applicant accepts an offer of the newloan (e.g., upon receiving the acceptance notification), a smartcontract (which may be an electronic or virtual contract) may begenerated. As will be explained further below, a smart contract may bebased upon a blockchain structure. In the exemplary embodiment, thesmart contract includes all of the information about the new loan aswell as asset data to link the smart contract to the first blockchain.In the exemplary embodiment, the smart contract may be stored in aplurality of locations including the access computing device, adatabase, and/or the blockchain network. In the exemplary embodiment,the smart contract is transmitted to the first blockchain node computingdevice for storage and distribution to the plurality of other blockchainnode computing devices, to update their local copies of the firstblockchain with the smart contract.

Automating loan management processes may facilitate reducing the latencyof loan management, from a time period of several days or weeks to aslittle as a matter of minutes. Moreover, the costs associated with loanmanagement may be substantially reduced, as well as the instance ofhuman error. Implementing this automation using blockchain technologymay eliminate any need for third-party providers of loan information,may improve security of loan information due to the decentralized andencrypted nature of blockchain technology, and may facilitate the use of“smart contract” technology hosted in blockchain blocks. The systems andmethods herein may further facilitate the execution of these smartcontracts automatically, as well as automatic transfer of funds and/ortransfer of asset title upon execution of the smart contracts. Broadly,the systems and methods provided herein may facilitate improving theprocessing speed of loan management by orders of magnitude due toautomation, thereby reducing cost to customers as well as providers,while improving data security and reducing data exposure to thirdparties.

In addition, the substantially seamless loan information transmissionbetween loan providers, facilitated by the distributed computingarchitecture of the blockchain network, may support improvedinter-provider data communication, such as the automatic transfer offunds and/or transfer of asset title. By facilitating the automaticexecution and storage (e.g., within the blockchain) of smart contracts,the systems and methods provided herein may further facilitate theleveraging of stored loan information into additional products andservices. For instance, in some cases, escrows may be built, documentsmay be validated and stored, and/or compliance audits may be improved,leveraging the blockchain network.

At least one of the technical problems addressed by this system mayinclude: (i) improving speed and accuracy of applying for and/orreceiving new loans on personal property assets; (ii) allowing forautomatic updates to a loan “ledger” on a blockchain platform; (iii)improving the online security of stored loan information through theblockchain technology; (iv) reducing timeline and costs associated withnew and/or re-financed loans; and/or (v) improving inter-institutionaccessibility of loan information while eliminating the need forthird-party information providers.

The methods and systems described herein may be implemented usingcomputer programming or engineering techniques including computersoftware, firmware, hardware, or any combination or subset thereof,wherein the technical effects may be achieved by performing at least oneof the following steps: (a) accessing a blockchain network through afirst blockchain node computing device, the blockchain network includinga plurality of node computing devices that store a respective copy of aplurality of blockchains, each blockchain including a sequence of one ormore blocks that are cryptographically verifiable and enforce achronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks, wherein eachblock after a first block includes a description of data stored in aprevious block; (b) receiving a request for information from a firstblockchain of the plurality of blockchains, the request including anasset identifier associated with a personal property asset; (c)transmitting a query including the asset identifier to the firstblockchain node computing device, the asset identifier identifying thefirst blockchain and causing the blockchain node computing device toidentify a last block in the first blockchain, the last block includingan encryption of existing loan information for an existing loanassociated with the personal property asset; (d) receiving theencryption of the existing loan information from the first blockchainnode computing device; (e) accessing a public key to decrypt theencryption of the existing loan information; (f) transmitting new loaninformation for a new loan associated with the personal property assetbased at least in part upon the decrypted existing loan information, thenew loan information superseding the existing loan information; (g)receiving an acceptance notification indicating acceptance of the newloan information; and/or (h) in response to said receiving theacceptance notification, automatically transmitting an updateinstruction to the first blockchain node computing device, the updateinstruction including the new loan information, the update instructioncausing the first blockchain node computing device to generate and storea new block subsequent to the last block, the new block including anencryption of the new loan information and a description of data storedin the last block.

Exemplary Loan Management System for Managing Loan Information UsingBlockchains

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary computing environment 100 for implementingan LM computer system 102 for managing property loan information. LMcomputer system 102 may be used to manage loan information associatedwith loans on personal property assets using blockchain technology. Inthe exemplary embodiment, LM computer system 102 may include an accesscomputing device 104 and at least one blockchain node computing device106 (also referred to herein as “nodes” 106) of a blockchain network108. Access computing device 104 is communicatively coupled, such as viawireless communication or data transmission over one or more radiofrequency links or digital communication channels, or wiredcommunication, or via an Application Programming Interface (API), to atleast one node 106A, and node 106A is communicatively coupled to aplurality of other nodes 106B, such as via wireless communication ordata transmission over one or more radio frequency links or digitalcommunication channels, or wired communication. The plurality of nodes106 may form blockchain network 108. Each node 106 may store arespective copy of a plurality of blockchains 110. As described furtherherein, each blockchain 110 may include a sequence of one or more blocksthat are cryptographically verifiable and enforce a chronological orderof data stored in subsequent blocks, and each block after a first blockmay include a description of data stored in a previous block and/or alink to the previous block.

As described herein in more detail, access computing device 104 may beconfigured to perform a loan registration process by, for example, (i)access blockchain network 108 through a first blockchain node computingdevice 106A, (ii) receive a request for information from a firstblockchain 110A of the plurality of blockchains 110, the requestincluding an asset identifier associated with a personal property asset,(iii) transmit a query including the asset identifier to firstblockchain node computing device 106A, the asset identifier identifyingfirst blockchain 110A and causing first blockchain node computing device106A to identify a last block in first blockchain 110A, the last blockincluding an encryption of existing loan information associated with thepersonal property asset, (iv) receive the encryption of the existingloan information from the first blockchain node computing device, (v)access a public key to decrypt the encryption of the existing loaninformation, (vi) transmit new loan information associated with thepersonal property asset based at least in part upon the decryptedexisting loan information, the new loan information superseding theexisting loan information, (vii) receive an acceptance notificationindicating acceptance of the new loan information, and/or (viii) inresponse to receiving the acceptance notification, automaticallytransmit an update instruction to first blockchain node computing device106A, the update instruction including an encryption of the new loaninformation, the update instruction causing first blockchain nodecomputing device 106A to generate and store a new block subsequent tothe last block, the new block including the encryption of the new loaninformation and a description of data stored in the last block.

In the exemplary embodiment, a loan applicant (and/or another user onbehalf of the loan applicant) may interact with access computing device104 (e.g., directly or indirectly) to perform a loan application processand/or a loan registration process. For instance, the loan applicant mayinteract with a website, form, software application (“app”), or othersuch platforms, to provide various information (e.g., user data, assetdata, requested loan terms, etc.) to a loan provider using accesscomputing device 104. In the exemplary embodiment, access computingdevice 104 may be associated with a loan provider entity, such that aloan applicant may interact with access computing device 104 at alocation associated with the loan provider entity (e.g., at an officelocation associated with the loan provider entity). Alternatively,access computing device 104 may be associated with the loan applicant,such that the loan applicant may interact with access computing device104 at substantially any time and/or in any location. Additionally oralternatively, a loan applicant may use a user computing device 112 toremotely or indirectly interact with access computing device 104. Forinstance, the loan applicant may use user computing device 112 tointeract with a form on an app or a web site, and user computing device112 may be configured to transmit any input information to accesscomputing device 104 for further processing as described herein.

Access computing device 104 and/or user computing device 112 may becomputers that include a web browser or a software application, whichenables access computing device 104 and/or user computing device 112 toaccess remote computer devices, such as node 106A, using the Internet orother network. More specifically, access computing device 104 and/oruser computing device 112 may be communicatively coupled to the Internetthrough many interfaces including, but not limited to, at least one of anetwork, such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide areanetwork (WAN), or an integrated services digital network (ISDN), adial-up-connection, a digital subscriber line (DSL), a cellular phoneconnection, and a cable modem. Access computing device 104 and/or usercomputing device 112 may be any device capable of accessing the Internetincluding, but not limited to, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, apersonal digital assistant (PDA), a cellular phone, a smartphone, atablet, a phablet, wearable electronics, smart watch, or other web-basedconnectable equipment or mobile devices.

In addition, nodes 106 may be computers configured to communicate withone another, using the Internet or other network. More specifically,nodes 106 may be communicatively coupled to the Internet through manyinterfaces including, but not limited to, at least one of a network,such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network(WAN), or an integrated services digital network (ISDN), adial-up-connection, a digital subscriber line (DSL), a cellular phoneconnection, and a cable modem. In some embodiments, nodes 106 may be anydevice capable of accessing the Internet including, but not limited to,a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant(PDA), a cellular phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a phablet, wearableelectronics, smart watch, or other web-based connectable equipment ormobile devices. In other embodiments, nodes 106 may be server computingdevices specifically configured to function as blockchain nodes 106.

In some embodiments, access computing device 104 may function as node106. Accordingly, where reference is made herein to access computingdevice 104 accessing and/or otherwise communicating with nodes 106(e.g., with node 106A), it should be understood that such reference mayequally refer to access computing device 104 accessing nodefunctionality within access computing device 104 itself.

Access computer device 104 may be further communicatively coupled to adatabase 120 that stores data. For instance, database 120 may be a localor remote database 120 associated with a loan provider and configured tostore data not stored in blockchain network 108 and/or store a localcopy of certain data stored in blockchain network 108. In oneembodiment, database 120 may store one or more smart contracts(described further herein), user, asset, and/or loan data associatedwith a loan provided by the loan provider associated with accesscomputer device 104, and/or any other suitable information. In oneembodiment, database 120 may be stored remotely from access computingdevice 104. In some embodiments, database 120 may be decentralized. Insome embodiments, a user, such as a loan applicant and/or a personassociated with a loan provider, may access database 120 via accesscomputing device 104 and/or another computing device (not shown)associated with the loan provider.

In one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a loan management(LM) computer system (e.g., LM computer system 102) for managingproperty loan information using blockchains may include a firstblockchain node computing device (e.g., node 106A) integral to ablockchain network (e.g., blockchain network 108). The blockchainnetwork may include a plurality of blockchain node computing devices(e.g., nodes 106) including the first blockchain node computing device.The first blockchain node computing device may be configured to store alocal copy of a plurality of blockchains (e.g., blockchains 110), eachblockchain including a sequence of one or more blocks, wherein eachblock is cryptographically verifiable and enforces a chronological orderof data stored in subsequent blocks. Each block after a first block mayinclude a description of data stored in a previous block. The LMcomputer system may also include an access computing device (e.g.,access computing device 104) communicatively coupled to the firstblockchain node computing device such that the access computing devicehas access to the plurality of blockchains stored in the blockchainnetwork. The LM computer system may be configured to: (i) receive, atthe access computing device, a request to access the blockchain network,the request including an asset identifier associated with a personalproperty asset, (ii) transmit, from the access computing device to thefirst blockchain node computing device, an instruction associated withthe request, the instruction including the asset identifier, (iii) inresponse to receiving the query, at the first blockchain node computingdevice, when the asset identifier is associated with a first existingblockchain stored at the first blockchain node computing device,retrieve encrypted existing loan information from a last block of thefirst existing blockchain and transmit the encrypted existing loaninformation to the access computing device, and/or (iv) in response toreceiving the query, at the first blockchain node computing device, whenthe asset identifier is not associated with any existing blockchainstored at the first blockchain node computing device, generate a firstblock of a new blockchain associated with the asset identifier.

In some embodiments, the request to access the blockchain network mayinclude a new loan registration request, the new loan registrationrequest including the asset identifier and new loan informationassociated with a new loan on the personal property asset. The LMcomputer system may be further configured to, at the first blockchainnode computing device, generate the first block of the new blockchainincluding the new loan information in an encrypted format.

In other embodiments, the request to access the blockchain network mayinclude an existing loan registration request, the existing loanregistration request including the asset identifier and existing loaninformation associated with an existing loan on the personal propertyasset that is not registered with the blockchain network. The LMcomputer system may be further configured to, at the first blockchainnode computing device, generate the first block of the new blockchainincluding the existing loan information in an encrypted format.

In still other embodiments, the request to access the blockchain networkmay include an existing loan update request, the existing loan updaterequest including the asset identifier and an updated loan termassociated with an existing loan on the personal property asset. The LMcomputer system may be further configured to, at the first blockchainnode computing device: (i) identify the first existing blockchainassociated with the personal property asset based at least in part uponthe asset identifier, (ii) generate a hash of the last block of thefirst existing blockchain, and/or (iii) generate a new block for thefirst existing blockchain, the new block including the updated loan termin an encrypted format and the hash of last block.

In some embodiments, the request includes a loan application for a newloan on the personal property asset. The LM computer system may befurther configured to: (i) access, at the access computing device, apublic key to decrypt the encrypted existing loan information, (ii)transmit, from the access computing device to a loan applicant, new loaninformation for the new loan based at least in part upon the decryptedexisting loan information, the new loan information superseding theexisting loan information, (iii) receive, at the access computing devicefrom the loan applicant, an acceptance notification indicatingacceptance of the new loan information, (iv) in response to theacceptance notification, automatically transmit, from the accesscomputing device to the first blockchain node computing device, anupdate instruction, the update instruction including the new loaninformation, and/or (v) in response to the update instruction, generate,at the first blockchain node computing device, a new block subsequent tothe last block, the new block including an encryption of the new loaninformation and a description of data stored in the last block.

Exemplary Processes for Managing Property Loan Information

FIG. 2 illustrates a data flow diagram 200 for one aspect of managingproperty loan information using LM computer system 102 (shown in FIG.1). Specifically, data flow diagram 200 depicts a loan registration orapplication process performed using access computing device 102 andblockchain node computing device 106A (both also shown in FIG. 1).

In the exemplary embodiment, access computing device 104 may access node106. As described above, node 106 may be part of blockchain network 108(shown in FIG. 1) including a plurality of nodes 106 that each store arespective copy of a plurality of blockchains 110 (also shown in FIG.1), and each blockchain 110 may include a sequence of one or more blocks202 that are cryptographically verifiable and enforce a chronologicalorder of data stored in subsequent blocks 202, wherein each block 202after a first block (not specifically shown in FIG. 2) includes adescription of data stored in a previous block 202 and/or a link to theprevious block 202. The description of the data in the previous block202 and/or the link to the previous block 202 may include, in theexemplary embodiment, a hash of the previous block 202 generating usinga hash function.

Access computing device 104 may receive a request 204 for informationfrom a first blockchain 110A. First blockchain 110A is identified usinginformation in request 204. More specifically, in the illustratedembodiment, request 204 may include a loan application 206 for a loanassociated with a personal property asset. Access computing device 104may receive request 204 (e.g., loan application 206) from a usercomputing device 112 (shown in FIG. 1) associated with the loanapplicant. Alternatively, access computing device 104 may receiverequest 204 (e.g., loan application 206) from an input device of accesscomputing device 104 (e.g., input device 720, shown in FIG. 7).

Loan application 206 may include asset data 208 associated with thepersonal property asset for which the loan is being requested. Assetdata 208 may include, but is not limited to, an asset identifier thatuniquely identifies the personal property asset. For instance, where thepersonal property asset is a vehicle, the asset identifier may include avehicle identification number (VIN). Where the personal property assetis a building or residence, the asset identifier may include an addressof the building or residence or a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) number.Asset data 208 may include additional and/or alternative informationassociated with the personal property asset.

Loan application 206 may also include user data 210 (also referred to as“applicant data”) associated with the loan applicant. For instance, userdata 210 may include an identifier that uniquely identifies theapplicant (e.g., a Social Security Number (SSN)). In the exemplaryembodiment, user data 210 may further include a consent indicator,indicating that the loan applicant has provided their consent for theuse and/or storage of user data 210 and/or asset data 208 for thepurposes of the loan being applied for. In some embodiments, the consentindicator may be provided using a checkbox or radio button on anelectronic form (e.g., within an app or website through which the loanapplicant is providing information for loan application 206).

Loan application 206 may also include requested loan terms 212. Loanterms 212 may be selected, provided, and/or specified by the loanapplicant, and may include requested interest rates, loan amounts,payoff timeline, down payment options, and/or any other loan terms 212.In some embodiments, loan terms 212 provided by the loan applicant maybe applied to an offer 236 (described below) of a loan to the loanapplicant without adjustment to loan terms 212. In other embodiments,one or more of loan terms 212 may be adjusted before offer 236 isprovided to the loan applicant.

In some embodiments, access computing device 104 may be configured toexecute one or more credit decisioning processes 214. For instance,access computing device 104 may transmit a query 216 to a credit bureau218 (or any other third party provider of credit information) using userdata 210 identifying the loan applicant. In some embodiments, accesscomputing device 104 may request consent from the loan applicant totransmit query 216. In other embodiments, access computing device 104may receive such consent within user data 210, as described above.Access computing device 104 may subsequently receive a credit record 220(or other suitable response) from credit bureau 218. Credit record 220may include, for instance, a credit score for loan applicant. If creditrecord 220 indicates that the loan applicant is a suitable candidate fora new loan (e.g., if the loan applicant's credit score is above aminimum threshold credit score), accessing computing device 104 mayproceed with the loan registration process. In the exemplary embodiment,access computing device 104 may perform credit decisioning 214automatically, upon receiving request 204 (e.g., loan application 206).

Access computing device 104 may proceed with an offer process 222. Offerprocess 22 may include transmitting a query 224 to node 106A. Query 224may include asset data 208, such as an asset identifier, such that node106A may identify blockchain 110A associated with the personal propertyasset identified by asset data 208. Query 224 may cause node 106A toidentify blockchain 110A, specifically a last (or most recent) block 226in blockchain 110A. Last block 226 may include existing loan information228 describing an existing loan on the personal property asset. Existingloan information may include, for example, asset data 230 associatedwith the personal property asset (e.g., the asset identifier), user data232 associated with the loan applicant for the existing loan, and/orlien data 234 describing the existing loan. Lien data 234 may include,for example, an identifier of an existing loan holder (e.g., a loanprovider), a start date of the existing loan, an amount of the existingloan, a term of the existing loan, a rate of the existing loan, and/or aper-diem interest rate of the existing loan. User data 232 may includeone or more elements similar to and/or matching elements of user data210. In the exemplary embodiment, existing loan information 228 may beencrypted.

Node 106A may respond to query 224 by transmitting at least some ofexisting loan information 228 to access computing device 104. Forexample, node 106A may transmit at least some of lien data 234 to accesscomputing device 104. In the exemplary embodiment, node 106A transmitsexisting loan information 228 in an encrypted state to access computingdevice 104. Access computing device 104 may access a public key todecrypt the encrypted existing loan information 228. In someembodiments, access computing device 104 may access the public key fromnode 106A. For instance, last block 226 may include a public key suchthat node 106A may provide the public key to access computing device 104when responding to query 224. Alternatively, access computing device 104may have the public key stored at a local storage location, such asdatabase 120 (shown in FIG. 1). Access computing device 104 may use theaccessed public key to decrypt existing loan information 228 such thataccess computing device 104 may process existing loan information 228.

Based at least in part on existing loan information, access computingdevice 104 prepares new loan information associated with a new loan forpersonal property asset. For instance, the new loan information mayinclude a pay-off amount to pay off the existing loan, a new interestrate, a new loan amount, an identifier of the new loan provider, etc. Asdescribed above, the new loan information may include some or all ofrequested loan terms 212. As part of offer process 222, access computingdevice 104 may transmit the new loan information to the loan applicant(e.g., to user computing device 112 or to a display device of accesscomputing device 104) as an offer 236. The new loan information mayreplace or supersede the existing loan information if offer 236 isaccepted by the loan applicant.

Access computing device 104 may receive an acceptance notification 238from the loan applicant, acceptance notification 238 indicating that theloan applicant has accepted offer 236, including all terms set forth inthe new loan information. In response to receiving acceptancenotification 238, access computing device 104 may proceed to one or moreexecution processes 240. One example of an execution process 240 mayinclude automatically transmitting an update instruction 242 to node106A. Update instruction 242 may include the new loan information.Additionally, update instruction 242 may cause node 106A to generate andstore a new block (not shown in FIG. 2) subsequent to last block 226,the new block including an encryption of the new loan information and adescription of data stored in the last block (e.g., a hash of last black226).

Another example of an execution process 240 may include executing asmart contract 244. Smart contract 244 may be an electronic contractthat is automatically executable upon the satisfaction of one or moreexecution criteria (e.g., acceptance of offer 236 and/or updating ofblockchain 110A). Smart contract 244 may have a suitable format suchthat smart contract 244 may be stored in blockchain 110A. In theexemplary embodiment, smart contract 244 may include all of the new loaninformation as well as acceptance notification 238. Smart contract 244may be stored in a plurality of locations, including at access computingdevice 104, database 120, and/or within blockchain network 108. In theexemplary embodiment, access computing device 244 may transmit an updateinstruction (e.g., update instruction 242) to node 106A including anexecuted smart contract 244. The update instruction may cause node 106Ato include executed smart contract 244 in the generated new block and/orto generate another new block including only smart contract 244 and ahash of the previous block. Access computing device 104 may beconfigured to transmit any number of update instructions to node 106A togenerate new blocks with information associated with new loans and/orupdates to existing loans.

Node 106A may generate any number of new blocks in accordance withreceived update instructions. Node 106A may be further configured todistribute any generated blocks 202 to a plurality of nodes 106 withinblockchain network 108, such that the plurality of nodes 106 updatetheir respective stored copies of blockchain 110A. Moreover, node 106Amay be configured to receive blocks 202 from any of the plurality ofnodes 106 for any blockchain 110 and may update its own stored copy ofthose blockchain(s) 110 with the received blocks 202.

FIG. 3 illustrates a data flow diagram 300 for another aspect ofmanaging property loan information using LM computer system 102 (shownin FIG. 1). Specifically, data flow diagram 300 depicts a plurality ofloan management processes performed access computing device 104 incommunication with blockchain node computing device 106A (both alsoshown in FIG. 1).

In the exemplary embodiment, access computing device 104 may receiveseveral requests 304 to access blockchain network 108. Specifically,requests 304 include an existing loan registration request 306, a newloan registration request 308, and an existing loan update request 310.In some embodiments, one or more of requests 304 may be similar torequest 204 (shown in FIG. 2).

Access computing device 104 may receive existing loan registrationrequest(s) 306 from one or more loan providers (e.g., from a loanprovider computing device or from an input device of access computingdevice 104) in an initial “registration” process with LM computer system102. For instance, a loan provider may register to receive the loanmanagement services of LM computer system 102 and may accordingly needto generate blockchains 110 for at least one existing loan alreadyprovided by that loan provider. Access computing device 104 may receivea separate lien packet 320 associated with each existing loan.

The lien packet 320 may include asset data 322 associated with thepersonal property asset for which the loan was granted, user data 324associated with a person to whom the loan was granted, and/or lien data326 describing the terms of the existing loan, as agreed upon betweenthe loan provider and the user/loan applicant. The asset data 322 mayinclude vehicle information (for a vehicle covered by the loan or lien),including VIN, make, and model information. The user data 324 mayinclude may SSN, address, and contact information. The lien data 326 mayinclude terms of the lien, such as an amount, term, rate, etc. The lienpacket 320 may also include current lien holder information and date ofthe lien information.

In some embodiments, lien packet 320 may further include informationassociated with previous loans on the personal property asset. Accesscomputing device 104 may transmit an encrypted instruction 330 to node106A (which may be similar to update instruction 242). Encryptedinstruction 330 may cause node 106A to generate a blockchain 110associated with the existing loan and/or with any previous loans on thepersonal property asset identified in lien packet 320. In someembodiments, access computing device 104 may include any executed smartcontracts 244 (shown in FIG. 2) within encrypted instruction 330 forstorage in blockchain 110.

Access computing device 104 may receive new loan registration request(s)308 from one or more loan provider(s) (e.g., from a loan providercomputing device or from an input device of access computing device 104)when a first or initial loan is being offered for a personal propertyasset (e.g., a new vehicle). For instance, a loan provider may need togenerate a blockchain 110 for the personal property asset to registerthe new loan. Access computing device 104 may receive a separate lienpacket 320 associated with each new loan. The lien packet 320 mayinclude asset data 322 associated with the personal property asset forwhich the loan was granted, user data 324 associated with a person towhom the loan was granted, and/or lien data 326 describing the terms ofthe new loan, as agreed upon between the loan provider and the user/loanapplicant. Access computing device 104 may transmit an encryptedinstruction 330 to node 106A (which may be similar to update instruction242). Encrypted instruction 330 may cause node 106A to generate ablockchain 110 associated with the personal property asset and thecorresponding new loan.

Access computing device may receive existing loan update request(s) 310from one or more loan provider(s) (e.g., from a loan provider computingdevice or from an input device of access computing device 104) when newloan is being offered for a personal property asset and/or when terms ofan existing loan are being updated. For instance, a loan provider mayneed to update a blockchain 110 for a personal property asset if a termof the loan is changed, such as a pay-off date or an interest rate.Access computing device 104 may receive a separate lien packet 320associated with each loan being updated or registered. The lien packet320 may include asset data 322 associated with the personal propertyasset for which the loan was granted, user data 324 associated with aperson to whom the loan was granted, and/or lien data 326 describing theterms of the new loan and/or the particular updates to one or moreterms, as agreed upon between the loan provider and the user/loanapplicant. Access computing device 104 may transmit an encryptedinstruction 330 to node 106A (which may be similar to update instruction242). Encrypted instruction 330 may cause node 106A to generate a newblock 332 in a blockchain 110 associated with the personal propertyasset.

Exemplary Blockchain

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary blockchain 110 associated with a personalproperty asset that may be generated and stored using one or moreblockchain nodes 106 of a blockchain network 108 (all shown in FIG. 1).Blockchain network 108 may be a distributed database that maintains acontinuously-growing blockchain 110, or list, of ordered records, knownas blocks 202 (shown in FIG. 2). Blockchain network 108 may provide anencrypted, distributed, and immutable ledger as blockchains 110 in whichloan information associated with a plurality of personal property assetsare stored. Each blockchain 110 includes a sequence of one or moreblocks 202 that are cryptographically verifiable and enforce achronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks 202. In oneexemplary embodiment, the one or more blocks 202 may include a firstblock 402 (referred to as “Block A” in FIG. 4) representing a firsttransaction—or registration of loan information—associated with apersonal property asset. In the exemplary embodiment, Block A may storeasset data 404 identifying the personal property asset, user data 406identifying the person to whom the loan was granted, and/or loan data408, identifying the loan provider of the loan and/or terms of the loan.Block A may further include Block A data 410 associated specificallywith Block A. For instance, Block A data 410 may include a timestampassociated with the generation of Block A and/or an identifier of a node106 at which Block A was generated.

The one or more blocks 202 may additionally include subsequent blocks412 (referred to individually as “Block B,” “Block C,” through “Block n”in FIG. 4 and collectively as blocks 412). Each subsequent block 412 mayinclude asset data 404, user data 406, and loan data 408, any of whichmay be similar to or different from the data stored in Block A. Forinstance, each subsequent block 412 may include updates or changes toloan data 408 according to updates in the loan on the personal propertyasset or new loans granted on the personal property asset.

Each subsequent block 412 may also include block data 414 associatedwith that corresponding block 412. For subsequent blocks 412, block data414 may not only include data associated specifically with that block412 (e.g., timestamp, node 106 identifier) but may further include adescription of the previous block 412's data. As one specific example,Block B data 414 may include a description 416 of Block A, whereindescription 416 may include a hash of Block A. The hash may be generatedby executing a hashing function on the data 404, 406, 408, 410 stored inBlock A. This continues on, with each block 412 adding on to the nextwhile containing a hash of the previous block(s) 412 in blockchain 110.In this way, the chronological series of data stored in a singleblockchain 110 may be verifiable and immutable.

Exemplary System for Blockchain Mining

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram 500 of a blockchain mining system 502in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Blockchainmining system 502 may be integral to and/or otherwise associated withblockchain network 108 (shown in FIG. 1). Blockchain mining system 502may include a supernode 504 and a plurality of nodes 106 (shown in FIG.1). Some nodes 106 may just be storing the latest copy of a blockchain110 (shown in FIG. 1). Other nodes 106 may be miners and are processingblocks 202 (shown in FIG. 2) in blockchain 110. Supernode 204 monitorsblockchain 110 and the integrity of system 502. For example, supernode204 may monitor when different nodes 106 go offline or becomeunavailable. Supernode 204 may also add nodes 106 to system 502 andensure that nodes 106 have up-to-date copies of blockchain 110. System502 may include a plurality of nodes 106 from a plurality of sources toimprove or increase the size and the integrity of each blockchain 110.

In some embodiments, nodes 106 may include one or more access computingdevice(s) 104 and/or one or more user computing device(s) 112 (shown inFIG. 1). Nodes 106 may additionally or alternatively include othercomputer devices of one or more loan providers. Nodes 106 may alsoinclude computer devices, such as servers, workstations, and mobiledevices of a blockchain federation or network (e.g., blockchain network108) that may extend outside of the control of the loan provider(s).

In some embodiments, a blockchain 110 may be maintained for eachpersonal property asset subject to loan terms. In other embodiments,each loan provider maintains one or more blockchains 110, where eachblockchain 110 contains the transactions or registrations from multipleloans offered by that loan provider.

When a new loan or loan update is registered at a node 106 (e.g., accesscomputing device 104 transmits instructions to that node 106), the node106 may wirelessly stream the data to be added to the correspondingblockchain 110. This data may be added to the appropriate blocks 202.

The data may be passed to the various other nodes 106 in system 502,where the data will be stored in blockchains 110 in each of the variousnodes 106 storing the blockchain 110. In some embodiments, the data maybe transferred and each node 106 generates the next block 202 in theblockchain 110. In other embodiments, the originating node 106 maygenerate the next block 202 and transmit the block 202 to the othernodes 106. In still other embodiments, supernode 504 may generate thenext block 202 and transmit the block 202 to the nodes 106.

Exemplary Computer-Implemented Processes for Managing Property LoanInformation Using Blockchains

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary computer-implementedprocess 600 for one aspect of managing property loan information usingLM computer system 102 (shown in FIG. 1). One or more steps of process600 may be implemented using access computing device 104 (also shown inFIG. 1). Additionally or alternatively, one or more steps of process 600may be implemented using one or more nodes 106 and/or user computingdevice 112 (both also shown in FIG. 1).

In the exemplary embodiment, process 600 may include accessing 602 ablockchain network through a first blockchain node computing device. Theblockchain network may include a plurality of node computing devicesthat store a respective copy of a plurality of blockchains, eachblockchain including a sequence of one or more blocks that arecryptographically verifiable and enforce a chronological order of datastored in subsequent blocks, wherein each block after a first blockincludes a description of data stored in a previous block. Process 600may also include receiving 604 a request for information from a firstblockchain of the plurality of blockchains, the request including anasset identifier associated with a personal property asset. Process 600may further include transmitting 606 a query including the assetidentifier to the first blockchain node computing device, the assetidentifier identifying the first blockchain and causing the blockchainnode computing device to identify a last block in the first blockchain,the last block including an encryption of existing loan information foran existing loan associated with the personal property asset.

In addition, process 600 may include receiving 608 the encryption of theexisting loan information from the first blockchain node computingdevice and accessing 610 a public key to decrypt the encryption of theexisting loan information. Process 600 may further include transmitting612 new loan information for a new loan associated with the personalproperty asset based at least in part upon the decrypted existing loaninformation, the new loan information superseding the existing loaninformation, and receiving 614 an acceptance notification indicatingacceptance of the new loan information. Process 600 may still furtherinclude, in response to receiving 614, automatically transmitting 616 anupdate instruction to the first blockchain node computing device, theupdate instruction including the new loan information, the updateinstruction causing the first blockchain node computing device togenerate and store a new block subsequent to the last block, the newblock including an encryption of the new loan information and adescription of data stored in the last block. Process 600 may includeadditional, fewer, and/or alternative steps to those illustrated in FIG.6.

Exemplary User Computer Device

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a user computer device702 that may be used in LM computer system 102 (shown in FIG. 1). Usercomputer device 702 may be operated by a user 701. User computer device702 may include, but is not limited to, access computing device 104,blockchain node computing device(s) 106, and/or user computing device112 (all shown in FIG. 1). User computer device 702 may include aprocessor 705 for executing instructions. In some embodiments,executable instructions may be stored in a memory area 710. Processor705 may include one or more processing units (e.g., in a multi-coreconfiguration). Memory area 710 may be any device allowing informationsuch as executable instructions and/or transaction data to be stored andretrieved. Memory area 710 may include one or more computer readablemedia.

User computer device 702 may also include at least one media outputcomponent 715 for presenting information to user 701. Media outputcomponent 715 may be any component capable of conveying information touser 701. In some embodiments, media output component 715 may include anoutput adapter (not shown) such as a video adapter and/or an audioadapter. An output adapter may be operatively coupled to processor 705and operatively coupleable to an output device such as a display device(e.g., a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), lightemitting diode (LED) display, or “electronic ink” display) or an audiooutput device (e.g., a speaker or headphones).

In some embodiments, media output component 715 may be configured topresent a graphical user interface (e.g., a web browser and/or a clientapplication) to user 701. A graphical user interface may include, forexample, a Tillable form to provide one or more of asset data 208, userdata 210, and/or loan terms 212 (shown in FIG. 2). In some embodiments,user computer device 702 may include an input device 720 for receivinginput from user 701. User 701 may use input device 720 to, withoutlimitation, provide one or more of asset data 208, user data 210, and/orloan terms 212, access an offer 242 (also shown in FIG. 2) for a newloan, and/or execute a contract. Input device 720 may include, forexample, a keyboard, a pointing device, a mouse, a stylus, a touchsensitive panel (e.g., a touch pad or a touch screen), a gyroscope, anaccelerometer, a position detector, a biometric input device, and/or anaudio input device. A single component such as a touch screen mayfunction as both an output device of media output component 715 andinput device 720.

Stored in memory area 710 are, for example, computer readableinstructions for providing a user interface to user 701 via media outputcomponent 715 and, optionally, receiving and processing input from inputdevice 720. A user interface may include, among other possibilities, aweb browser and/or a client application. Web browsers enable users, suchas user 701, to display and interact with media and other informationtypically embedded on a web page or a website from, for example, a loanprovider. A client application may allow user 701 to interact with, forexample, access computing device 104 and/or node(s) 106. For example,instructions may be stored by a cloud service, and the output of theexecution of the instructions sent to the media output component 715.

User computer device 702 may also include a communication interface 725,communicatively coupled to a remote device such as access computingdevice 104, and/or node(s) 106. Communication interface 725 may include,for example, a wired or wireless network adapter and/or a wireless datatransceiver for use with a mobile telecommunications network.

Exemplary Server Computer Device

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a server computerdevice 802 that may be used in LM computer system 102 (shown in FIG. 1).Server computer device 802 may include, but is not limited to, accesscomputing device 104 and/or node(s) 106 (both also shown in FIG. 1).Server computer device 802 may include a processor 805 for executinginstructions. Instructions may be stored in a memory area 810. Processor805 may include one or more processing units (e.g., in a multi-coreconfiguration).

Processor 805 may be operatively coupled to a communication interface815 such that server computer device 802 is capable of communicatingwith a remote device such as another server computer device 802, a usercomputer device 702 (shown in FIG. 7), user computing device 112 (shownin FIG. 1), access computing device 104, and/or node(s) 106 (forexample, using wireless communication or data transmission over one ormore radio links or digital communication channels). For example,communication interface 815 may receive requests from user computerdevices 702 via the Internet.

Processor 805 may also be operatively coupled to a storage device 825.Storage device 825 may be any computer-operated hardware suitable forstoring and/or retrieving data, such as, but not limited to, dataassociated with database 120 (shown in FIG. 1). In some embodiments,storage device 825 may be integrated in server computer device 802. Forexample, server computer device 802 may include one or more hard diskdrives as storage device 825. In other embodiments, storage device 825may be external to server computer device 802 and may be accessed by aplurality of server computer devices 802. For example, storage device825 may include a storage area network (SAN), a network attached storage(NAS) system, and/or multiple storage units such as hard disks and/orsolid state disks in a redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID)configuration.

In some embodiments, processor 805 may be operatively coupled to storagedevice 825 via a storage interface 820. Storage interface 820 may be anycomponent capable of providing processor 805 with access to storagedevice 825. Storage interface 820 may include, for example, an AdvancedTechnology Attachment (ATA) adapter, a Serial ATA (SATA) adapter, aSmall Computer System Interface (SCSI) adapter, a RAID controller, a SANadapter, a network adapter, and/or any component providing processor 805with access to storage device 825.

Processor 805 may execute computer-executable instructions forimplementing aspects of the disclosure. In some embodiments, theprocessor 805 may be transformed into a special purpose microprocessorby executing computer-executable instructions or by otherwise beingprogrammed. For example, the processor 805 may be programmed with theinstruction such as illustrated in FIG. 6.

Exemplary Computer Device

FIG. 9 depicts a diagram 900 of components of one or more exemplarycomputing devices 910 that may be used in LM computer system 102 (shownin FIG. 1). In some embodiments, computing device 910 may be similar toaccess computing device 104 (also shown in FIG. 1). In otherembodiments, computing device 910 may be similar to node(s) 106 and/oruser computing device 112 (both also shown in FIG. 1). In the exemplaryembodiment, computing device 910 may include a database 920 for storinginformation. For example, database 920 may store asset data 922, userdata 924, loan terms 926, smart contracts 244 (also shown in FIG. 2),contract execution criteria 928, and/or any other data associated withone or more personal property loan(s) provided a loan provider. In someembodiments, database 920 is similar to database 120 (shown in FIG. 1).

Database 920 may be coupled with several separate components withincomputing device 910, which perform specific tasks. Specifically,computing device 910 may include an accessing component 930 enablingaccess to remote computing devices (e.g., nodes 106). Computing device910 may also including a communication component 940, for receivingrequests (e.g., receiving 604), transmitting queries (e.g., transmitting606), receiving loan information (e.g., receiving 608), transmittingloan information (e.g., receiving 612), receiving acceptancenotifications (e.g., receiving 614) and/or transmitting updateinstructions (e.g., transmitting 616, all shown in FIG. 6). Computingdevice 910 may further include a processing component 950 to assist withexecution of computer-executable instructions associated with LMcomputer system 102.

Further Considerations

Building the solution to the above-referenced problems with current loanmanagement and registration systems through blockchain technology mayeliminate the need for a third-party data provider, may be more securedue to decentralization and encryption, may facilitate hosting smartcontracts that execute once certain parameters are met (transfer offunds if customer/vehicle verified, even transfer of title when fundsreceived, etc.). In addition, the systems and methods described hereinmay provide seamless lien data transmission between lending institutionsto record information and execute transactions without requiring avalidating third party. Moreover, technology could support expansioninto other inter-institution processes like funds transfer and titleexchanges.

The systems and methods described herein may improve a loan provider'sability to provide better customer experience at a lower cost. It mayprovide a base layer (e.g., a functional blockchain and ability toexecute smart contracts) to scale seamless data exchange betweenfinancial institutions and eliminate need for third party-dataconsortiums. In addition to the blockchain techniques described herein,alternative and/or future developed blockchain techniques may be usedwith the present embodiments.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, an access computing devicefor managing property loan information using blockchains may beprovided. The access computing device may include at least one processorin communication with at least one memory device. The access computingdevice may be configured to access a blockchain network through a firstblockchain node computing device, the blockchain network including aplurality of node computing devices that store a respective copy of aplurality of blockchains, each blockchain including a sequence of one ormore blocks that are cryptographically verifiable and enforce achronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks, wherein eachblock after a first block includes a description of data stored in aprevious block. The access computing device may be further configured toreceive a request for information from a first blockchain of theplurality of blockchains, the request including an asset identifierassociated with a personal property asset, and transmit a queryincluding the asset identifier to the first blockchain node computingdevice, the asset identifier identifying the first blockchain andcausing the blockchain node computing device to identify a last block inthe first blockchain, the last block including an encryption of existingloan information for an existing loan associated with the personalproperty asset. The access computing device may also be configured toreceive the encryption of the existing loan information from the firstblockchain node computing device, access a public key to decrypt theencryption of the existing loan information, and transmit new loaninformation for a new loan associated with the personal property assetbased at least in part upon the decrypted existing loan information, thenew loan information superseding the existing loan information. Theaccess computing device may be still further configured to receive anacceptance notification indicating acceptance of the new loaninformation, and in response to receiving the acceptance notification,automatically transmit an update instruction to the first blockchainnode computing device, the update instruction including the new loaninformation, the update instruction causing the first blockchain nodecomputing device to generate and store a new block subsequent to thelast block, the new block including an encryption of the new loaninformation and a description of data stored in the last block.

In some embodiments, the access computing device may be furtherconfigured to receive the request for information from a loan applicantapplying for a new loan on the personal property asset. In someinstances, the access computing device may be further configured toreceive the request for information from a user computing device beingused to submit the loan application. In some instances, the accesscomputing device may further include an input device in communicationwith the at least one processor, the access computing device furtherconfigured to receive the request for information from the input device.

In some embodiments, request for information may include a loanapplication from a loan applicant applying for the new loan. The loanapplication may include at least one of applicant data associated withthe loan applicant and requested loan terms associated with the newloan. The applicant data may include at least one of an applicantidentifier and an applicant consent to use at least one of the applicantdata and the asset identifier to query the blockchain network. In someinstance, the access computing device may be further configured toperform one or more credit decisioning processes before transmitting thenew loan information. The access computing device may be furtherconfigured to automatically perform the one or more credit decisioningprocesses upon receiving the request for information.

In some embodiments, the personal property asset may include a vehicle,and the asset identifier may include a vehicle identification number(VIN). In other embodiments, the personal property asset may include abuilding, and the asset identifier may include at least one of anaddress of the building and a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) number.

The access computing device may be further configured to access thepublic key from the first blockchain node computing device.

The access computing device may be further configured to access thepublic key from a local storage device communicatively coupled to theaccess computing device.

In some embodiments, the existing loan information may include at leastone of an identifier of an existing loan holder, a start date of theexisting loan, an amount of the existing loan, a term of the existingloan, a rate of the existing loan, and a per-diem interest rate of theexisting loan in an encrypted format.

The access computing device may be further configured to, in response toreceiving the acceptance notification, electronically execute a contractassociated with the new loan, wherein the update instruction furtherincludes the electronically executed contract, such that the new blockfurther includes an encryption of the executed contract. In someinstances, the contract may include a smart contract.

In some embodiments, the access computing device may be furtherconfigured to encrypt the new loan information prior to automaticallytransmitting the update instruction.

In some embodiments, the access computing device may be furtherconfigured to transmit the update instruction including the new loaninformation in an unencrypted format, the update instruction furthercausing the first blockchain node computing device to encrypt the newloan information.

The access computing device may be further configured to receive anupdate to the new loan information, and in response to receiving theupdate, transmit a subsequent update instruction to the first blockchainnode computing device, the subsequent update instruction causing thefirst blockchain node computing device to generate a subsequent newblock in the first blockchain, the subsequent new block including theupdate to the new loan information.

In some aspects of the present disclosure, at least one non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium having computer-executable instructionsembodied thereon may be provided. When executed by at least oneprocessor of an access computing device, the computer-executableinstructions may cause the at least one processor to access a blockchainnetwork through a first blockchain node computing device, the blockchainnetwork including a plurality of node computing devices that store arespective copy of a plurality of blockchains, each blockchain includinga sequence of one or more blocks that are cryptographically verifiableand enforce a chronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks,wherein each block after a first block includes a description of datastored in a previous block. The computer-executable instructions mayalso cause the at least one processor to receive a request forinformation from a first blockchain of the plurality of blockchains, therequest including an asset identifier associated with a personalproperty asset, and transmit a query including the asset identifier tothe first blockchain node computing device, the asset identifieridentifying the first blockchain and causing the blockchain nodecomputing device to identify a last block in the first blockchain, thelast block including an encryption of existing loan information for anexisting loan associated with the personal property asset. Thecomputer-executable instructions may further cause the at least oneprocessor to receive the encryption of the existing loan informationfrom the first blockchain node computing device, access a public key todecrypt the encryption of the existing loan information, and transmitnew loan information for a new loan associated with the personalproperty asset based at least in part upon the decrypted existing loaninformation, the new loan information superseding the existing loaninformation. The computer-executable instructions may still furthercause the at least one processor to receive an acceptance notificationindicating acceptance of the new loan information, and in response toreceiving the acceptance notification, automatically transmit an updateinstruction to the first blockchain node computing device, the updateinstruction including the new loan information, the update instructioncausing the first blockchain node computing device to generate and storea new block subsequent to the last block, the new block including anencryption of the new loan information and a description of data storedin the last block.

In some embodiments, the computer-executable instructions may furthercause that at least one processor to receive the request for informationfrom a loan applicant applying for a new loan on the personal propertyasset. The computer-executable instructions may further cause that atleast one processor to receive the request for information from a usercomputing device being used to submit the loan application. Thecomputer-executable instructions may further cause that at least oneprocessor to receive the request for information from an input device incommunication with the at least one processor. The request forinformation may include a loan application from a loan applicantapplying for the new loan. The loan application may include at least oneof applicant data associated with the loan applicant and requested loanterms associated with the new loan. The applicant data may include atleast one of an applicant identifier and an applicant consent to use atleast one of the applicant data and the asset identifier to query theblockchain network. The computer-executable instructions may furthercause that at least one processor to perform one or more creditdecisioning processes before transmitting the new loan information. Thecomputer-executable instructions may further cause that at least oneprocessor to automatically perform the one or more credit decisioningprocesses upon receiving the request for information.

In some embodiments, the personal property asset may include a vehicle,and the asset identifier may include a vehicle identification number(VIN). In other embodiments, the personal property asset may include abuilding, and the asset identifier may include at least one of anaddress of the building and a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) number.

The computer-executable instructions may further cause that at least oneprocessor to access the public key from the first blockchain nodecomputing device.

The computer-executable instructions may further cause that at least oneprocessor to access the public key from a local storage devicecommunicatively coupled to the access computing device.

The existing loan information may include at least one of an identifierof an existing loan holder, a start date of the existing loan, an amountof the existing loan, a term of the existing loan, a rate of theexisting loan, and a per-diem interest rate of the existing loan in anencrypted format.

The computer-executable instructions may further cause that at least oneprocessor to, in response to receiving the acceptance notification,electronically execute a contract associated with the new loan, whereinthe update instruction further includes the electronically executedcontract, such that the new block further includes an encryption of theexecuted contract. The contract may include a smart contract.

The computer-executable instructions may further cause that at least oneprocessor to encrypt the new loan information prior to automaticallytransmitting the update instruction.

The computer-executable instructions may further cause that at least oneprocessor to transmit the update instruction including the new loaninformation in an unencrypted format, the update instruction furthercausing the first blockchain node computing device to encrypt the newloan information.

The computer-executable instructions further cause that at least oneprocessor to receive an update to the new loan information, and inresponse to receiving the update, transmit a subsequent updateinstruction to the first blockchain node computing device, thesubsequent update instruction causing the first blockchain nodecomputing device to generate a subsequent new block in the firstblockchain, the subsequent new block including the update to the newloan information.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a loan management (LM)computer system for managing property loan information using blockchainsmay be provided. The LM computer system may include a first blockchainnode computing device integral to a blockchain network, the blockchainnetwork including a plurality of blockchain node computing devicesincluding the first blockchain node computing device, the firstblockchain node computing device configured to store a local copy of aplurality of blockchains, each blockchain including a sequence of one ormore blocks that are cryptographically verifiable and enforce achronological order of data stored in subsequent blocks, wherein eachblock after a first block includes a description of data stored in aprevious block. The LM computer system may also include an accesscomputing device communicatively coupled to the first blockchain nodecomputing device such that the access computing device has access to theplurality of blockchains stored in the blockchain network. The LMcomputer system may be configured to receive, at the access computingdevice, a request to access the blockchain network, the requestincluding an asset identifier associated with a personal property asset,and transmit, from the access computing device to the first blockchainnode computing device, an instruction associated with the request, theinstruction including the asset identifier. The LM computer system maybe further configured to, in response to receiving the query, at thefirst blockchain node computing device, when the asset identifier isassociated with a first existing blockchain stored at the firstblockchain node computing device, retrieve encrypted existing loaninformation from a last block of the first existing blockchain andtransmit the encrypted existing loan information to the access computingdevice. The LM computer system may be further configured to, in responseto receiving the query, at the first blockchain node computing device,when the asset identifier is not associated with any existing blockchainstored at the first blockchain node computing device, generate a firstblock of a new blockchain associated with the asset identifier.

In some embodiments, the request to access the blockchain network mayinclude a new loan registration request, the new loan registrationrequest including the asset identifier and new loan informationassociated with a new loan on the personal property asset. The LMcomputer system may be further configured to, at the first blockchainnode computing device, generate the first block of the new blockchainincluding the new loan information in an encrypted format.

The request to access the blockchain network may include an existingloan registration request, the existing loan registration requestincluding the asset identifier and existing loan information associatedwith an existing loan on the personal property asset that is notregistered with the blockchain network. The LM computer system may befurther configured to, at the first blockchain node computing device,generate the first block of the new blockchain including the existingloan information in an encrypted format.

The request to access the blockchain network may include an existingloan update request, the existing loan update request including theasset identifier and an updated loan term associated with an existingloan on the personal property asset. The LM computer system may befurther configured to, at the first blockchain node computing device,identify the first existing blockchain associated with the personalproperty asset based at least in part upon the asset identifier,generate a hash of the last block of the first existing blockchain, andgenerate a new block for the first existing blockchain, the new blockincluding the updated loan term in an encrypted format and the hash oflast block.

The request may include a loan application for a new loan on thepersonal property asset. The LM computer system may be furtherconfigured to access, at the access computing device, a public key todecrypt the encrypted existing loan information, transmit, from theaccess computing device to a loan applicant, new loan information forthe new loan based at least in part upon the decrypted existing loaninformation, the new loan information superseding the existing loaninformation, receive, at the access computing device from the loanapplicant, an acceptance notification indicating acceptance of the newloan information, in response to the acceptance notification,automatically transmit, from the access computing device to the firstblockchain node computing device, an update instruction, the updateinstruction including the new loan information, and in response to theupdate instruction, generate, at the first blockchain node computingdevice, a new block subsequent to the last block, the new blockincluding an encryption of the new loan information and a description ofdata stored in the last block.

Additional Considerations

As will be appreciated based upon the foregoing specification, theabove-described embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented usingcomputer programming or engineering techniques including computersoftware, firmware, hardware or any combination or subset thereof. Anysuch resulting program, having computer-readable code means, may beembodied or provided within one or more computer-readable media, therebymaking a computer program product, i.e., an article of manufacture,according to the discussed embodiments of the disclosure. Thecomputer-readable media may be, for example, but is not limited to, afixed (hard) drive, diskette, optical disk, magnetic tape, semiconductormemory such as read-only memory (ROM), and/or any transmitting/receivingmedium, such as the Internet or other communication network or link. Thearticle of manufacture containing the computer code may be made and/orused by executing the code directly from one medium, by copying the codefrom one medium to another medium, or by transmitting the code over anetwork.

These computer programs (also known as programs, software, softwareapplications, “apps”, or code) include machine instructions for aprogrammable processor, and can be implemented in a high-levelprocedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or inassembly/machine language. As used herein, the terms “machine-readablemedium” “computer-readable medium” refers to any computer programproduct, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical disks,memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide machineinstructions and/or data to a programmable processor, including amachine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as amachine-readable signal. The “machine-readable medium” and“computer-readable medium,” however, do not include transitory signals.The term “machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to providemachine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.

As used herein, a processor may include any programmable systemincluding systems using micro-controllers, reduced instruction setcircuits (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logiccircuits, and any other circuit or processor capable of executing thefunctions described herein. The above examples are example only, and arethus not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning ofthe term “processor.”

As used herein, the terms “software” and “firmware” are interchangeable,and include any computer program stored in memory for execution by aprocessor, including RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROMmemory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The above memory types areexample only, and are thus not limiting as to the types of memory usablefor storage of a computer program.

In one embodiment, a computer program is provided, and the program isembodied on a computer readable medium. In an exemplary embodiment, thesystem is executed on a single computer system, without requiring aconnection to a sever computer. In a further embodiment, the system isbeing run in a Windows® environment (Windows is a registered trademarkof Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Wash.). In yet another embodiment,the system is run on a mainframe environment and a UNIX® serverenvironment (UNIX is a registered trademark of X/Open Company Limitedlocated in Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom). The application isflexible and designed to run in various different environments withoutcompromising any major functionality.

In some embodiments, the system includes multiple components distributedamong a plurality of computing devices. One or more components may be inthe form of computer-executable instructions embodied in acomputer-readable medium. The systems and processes are not limited tothe specific embodiments described herein. In addition, components ofeach system and each process can be practiced independent and separatefrom other components and processes described herein. Each component andprocess can also be used in combination with other assembly packages andprocesses. The present embodiments may enhance the functionality andfunctioning of computers and/or computer systems.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and precededby the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding pluralelements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited.Furthermore, references to “example embodiment” or “one embodiment” ofthe present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excludingthe existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate therecited features.

The patent claims at the end of this document are not intended to beconstrued under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless traditionalmeans-plus-function language is expressly recited, such as “means for”or “step for” language being expressly recited in the claim(s).

This written description uses examples to disclose the disclosure,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devicesor systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scopeof the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include otherexamples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples areintended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structuralelements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, orif they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantialdifferences from the literal languages of the claims.

I claim:
 1. A computer-implemented method of operating a computer systemto manage loan information using blockchains, the method implementedusing an access computing device of the computer system, the methodcomprising: accessing a blockchain network through a first blockchainnode computing device, the blockchain network including a plurality ofnode computing devices that store a respective copy of a plurality ofblockchains, each blockchain including a sequence of one or more blocksthat are cryptographically verifiable and enforce a chronological orderof data stored in subsequent blocks, wherein each block after a firstblock includes a description of data stored in a previous block;receiving, from a user, a request for information from a firstblockchain of the plurality of blockchains, the request including: (i)an asset identifier associated with a personal property asset, (ii) auser identifier associated with the user, and (iii) a user consent touse the asset identifier and the user identifier to query the blockchainnetwork; in response to receiving the request, automaticallytransmitting a query including the asset identifier and the useridentifier to the first blockchain node computing device, the assetidentifier causing the blockchain node to identify and retrieve thefirst blockchain and match the user identifier with information in alast block in the first blockchain, the last block including anencryption of existing loan information for an existing loan associatedwith the personal property asset and the user; receiving the encryptionof the existing loan information from the first blockchain nodecomputing device; accessing a public key from the first blockchain nodecomputing device, to decrypt the encryption of the existing loaninformation using a decryption scheme associated with the public key;transmitting, to a remote computing device, new loan information for anew loan associated with the personal property asset based at least inpart upon the decrypted existing loan information; receiving, from theremote computing device, an acceptance notification indicatingacceptance of the new loan information; and in response to saidreceiving the acceptance notification: generating a smart contractassociated with the new loan based on the accepted new loan information;electronically executing the smart contract, including transferring,using the smart contract funds associated with the new loan andupdating, using the smart contract, a title associated with the personalproperty asset; encrypting the new loan information and a representationof the executed smart contract using an encryption scheme associatedwith the public key; and automatically transmitting an updateinstruction to the first blockchain node computing device, the updateinstruction including the encryption of the new loan information and theencryption of the representation of the executed smart contract, theupdate instruction causing the first blockchain node computing device togenerate and store a new block subsequent to the last block, the newblock including (i) the encryption of the new loan information whereinthe new loan information supersedes the existing loan information, (ii)the encryption of the representation of the executed smart contract, and(iii) a description of data stored in the last block.
 2. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein said receiving a requestfor information from a user comprises receiving the request forinformation from a loan applicant applying for a new loan on thepersonal property asset.
 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2,wherein said receiving the request for information comprises receivingthe request for information from a user computing device being used tosubmit a loan application.
 4. The computer-implemented method of claim2, wherein said receiving the request for information comprisesreceiving the request for information from an input device of the accesscomputing device.
 5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, whereinsaid receiving a request for information from a user comprises receivinga loan application from a loan applicant applying for the new loan. 6.The computer-implemented method of claim 5, wherein receiving a loanapplication comprises receiving the loan application further includingrequested loan terms associated with the new loan.
 7. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 5 further comprising performing oneor more credit decisioning processes before transmitting the new loaninformation.
 8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 whereinperforming one or more credit decisioning processes comprisesautomatically performing the one or more credit decisioning processesupon receiving the request for information.
 9. The computer-implementedmethod of claim 1, wherein the personal property asset includes avehicle, and wherein receiving a request for information including anasset identifier comprises receiving the asset identifier including avehicle identification number (VIN).
 10. The computer-implemented methodof claim 1, wherein the personal property asset includes a building, andwherein receiving a request for information including an assetidentifier comprises receiving the asset identifier including at leastone of an address of the building and a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)number.
 11. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, whereinreceiving the encryption of the existing loan information comprisesreceiving encrypted existing loan information including at least one ofan identifier of an existing loan holder, a start date of the existingloan, an amount of the existing loan, a term of the existing loan, arate of the existing loan, and a per-diem interest rate of the existingloan in an encrypted format.
 12. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 1 further comprising: receiving an update to the new loaninformation; and in response to said receiving an update, transmitting asubsequent update instruction to the first blockchain node computingdevice, the subsequent update instruction causing the first blockchainnode computing device to generate a subsequent new block in the firstblockchain, the subsequent new block including the update to the newloan information.
 13. An access computing device for managing propertyloan information using blockchains, the access computing devicecomprising at least one processor in communication with at least onememory device, the access computing device configured to: access ablockchain network through a first blockchain node computing device, theblockchain network including a plurality of node computing devices thatstore a respective copy of a plurality of blockchains, each blockchainincluding a sequence of one or more blocks that are cryptographicallyverifiable and enforce a chronological order of data stored insubsequent blocks, wherein each block after a first block includes adescription of data stored in a previous block; receive, from a user, arequest for information from a first blockchain of the plurality ofblockchains, the request including: (i) an asset identifier associatedwith a personal property asset, (ii) a user identifier associated withthe user, and (iii) a user consent to use the asset identifier and theuser identifier to query the blockchain network; in response toreceiving the request, automatically transmit a query including theasset identifier and the user identifier to the first blockchain nodecomputing device, the asset identifier causing the blockchain node toidentify and retrieve the first blockchain and match the user identifierwith information in a last block in the first blockchain, the last blockincluding an encryption of existing loan information for an existingloan associated with the personal property asset and the user; receivethe encryption of the existing loan information from the firstblockchain node computing device; access a public key from the firstblockchain node computing device, to decrypt the encryption of theexisting loan information using a decryption scheme associated with thepublic key, wherein the first blockchain node computing device providesthe public key in response to the query; transmit new loan informationfor a new loan associated with the personal property asset based atleast in part upon the decrypted existing loan information; receive anacceptance notification indicating acceptance of the new loaninformation; and in response to receiving the acceptance notification:generate a smart contract associated with the new loan based upon theaccepted new loan information; electronically execute the smartcontract, including transferring funds associated with the new loan andupdating a title associated with the personal property asset; encryptthe new loan information and a representation of the executed smartcontract using an encryption scheme associated with the public key; andautomatically transmit an update instruction to the first blockchainnode computing device, the update instruction including the encryptionof the new loan information and the encryption of the representation ofthe executed smart contract, the update instruction causing the firstblockchain node computing device to generate and store a new blocksubsequent to the last block, the new block including (i) the encryptionof the new loan information wherein the new loan information supersedesthe existing loan information, (ii) the encryption of the representationof the executed smart contract, and (iii) a description of data storedin the last block.